eXPander

There are different methods to reduce a file’s size without affecting functionality or quality. A particular case is the archive, which comes in different formats, depending on the services it’s used by. Windows has it’s own CAB type, and you can easily create such archives with tools like eXPander.

The application itself doesn’t require installation, but you do need to make sure that the computer you use it on is fitted with .NET Framework to be able to use it. This means it can easily fit on a thumb drive in case you need to create CAB archives on other computers besides your own, while registry entries are not affected in the process.

For proper functionality the application uses the modifyPE.exe file, which is usually located in the System32 folder from the Windows root. Chances are it’s no longer there, at least not on modern Windows iterations, so it’s a good idea to grab it online, because it’s not found in the program’s deployment package.

There are two modes of operation, namely to create and expand CAB files. In fact, the whole idea behind the application is to create a visual interface for the makecab and expand functions which are normally initiated through a Command Prompt instance. Additional options can integrate it in the context menu for faster approach, and have original files removed upon archiving.

Relying on the main window to archive files only requires you to drop multiple files, or a folder over the window. The result is always delivered in the source directory. The same method is applied to unpack a CAB archive.

Taking everything into consideration, we can state that eXPander is a practical tool with which you can create CAB files in the blink of an eye. It can integrate into the context menu for easy, and fast selection of files. It comes in a lightweight package which you can even use on the go.